LSU's K'Lavon Chaisson Falling to the Patriots in Round One Would Be a Massive Win for New England

After the Patriots lost a chunk of impact players to free agency, from all-world legend Tom Brady to defensive stalwart Kyle Van Noy, New England has a lot of work to do in reconstructing a winning roster. The holes on the offense are evident, but their defensive front is depleted after losing many impact players over the past few seasons. That's why their NFL Draft strategy must be inch-perfect.

When the Patriots' first pick comes around at No. 23 overall, they would be wise to resist the temptation to select a high-flying skill player, especially after choosing N’Keal Harry last season. Rather, they need to take a long look at the available pass rushers -- and if LSU stud K'Lavon Chiasson is still on the board, he has to be the guy.

The Houston native steadily improved his skills throughout his time with the Tigers, and racked up 6.5 sacks and was named First Team All-SEC in LSU’s nation championship season in 2019, his redshirt sophomore campaign. Chaisson has all the tools to be molded into a pass rusher that changes the game for Belichick’s defense, but because of all that upside, there's far from any guarantee that he'll still be on the board when it's time for the Pats to pick.

All told, he'd be a steal at No. 23.

Chaisson’s technique is impressive, with quick lateral ability to pair with a powerful bull rush. Scouts love his first step off the line, and he has a real chance to haunt opposing offensive tackles right out of the gate.

Even if the football world is clamoring for the Patriots to add offensive weapons or even a franchise quarterback, Belichick and Co. need to be smart. If Chiasson is there to be had, they've got to snatch him.